Melbourne, VIC – In a development that could shake the foundations of the AFL landscape, Western Bulldogs young star Sam Darcy has reportedly expressed interest in joining the Collingwood Football Club on a long-term deal, according to sources close to the situation. The news has sent shockwaves through both club camps and the broader AFL community, as the 21-year-old is considered one of the league’s most promising rising talents.
Darcy, the son of former Bulldogs great Luke Darcy, has been steadily carving out his own legacy, impressing fans and analysts alike with his unique combination of size, mobility, and on-field intelligence. Standing at 208cm, his ability to dominate as both a key forward and part-time ruckman has made him a critical asset in the Bulldogs’ future plans.
However, despite his deep family ties to the Western Bulldogs, Darcy is said to be seriously considering a fresh start with the Magpies, drawn by their sustained success, elite development program, and long-term vision under head coach Craig McRae.
In response to the reports, McRae released a statement, neither confirming nor denying the club’s active pursuit of Darcy but acknowledging the young star’s impact and the high regard in which he is held at Collingwood:
“Sam Darcy is an exceptional talent — there’s no question about that. He’s got the kind of attributes every club would want in their system. As a coach, you always keep an eye on who could complement your group in the long term. But out of respect for Sam and the Bulldogs, we’ll allow the process to unfold naturally.”
This comes amid growing speculation that Collingwood is preparing to make a major off-season move, with several senior list spots potentially opening up as part of a long-term squad refresh. While Darcy is still contracted with the Bulldogs through 2026, sources suggest informal discussions around a potential future move have already begun behind the scenes.
The Bulldogs have yet to issue a formal response, but internally, the club is believed to be deeply committed to retaining Darcy, who they see as a future cornerstone of their structure. Club insiders indicate that an improved contract extension may be presented in the coming weeks in an effort to ward off interest from rival clubs.
If the move materializes, it would represent one of the most high-profile inter-club transfers in recent years — not only because of Darcy’s pedigree but also due to the symbolic shift it would represent, as the son of a Bulldogs icon potentially dons the black and white stripes of a traditional rival.
This story is developing.